Canadian independent artists to perform at Lilla By Festivalen June 12-13, 2026 - in a landmark first for Canada-Sweden musical exchange
The inaugural North2North Competition named three extraordinary Canadian indie artists who will be heading to Sweden, to not only perform at featured showcase shows but to proudly represent Canada at a time when we are being recognized as a country with amazing musicians.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, states that Canada is the 3rd largest exporter of music: www.youtube.com/shorts/ppP2s72e3Fs
Fresh Breath, Irish Millie, and Donita Large have each earned a spot in a Canadian landmark event, where they will perform on the main stage and in the beloved festival's very own Canada Barn, where our Canadian flag is flown with pride. This is the first time a competition of this kind has opened a direct performance pipeline between Canadian indie artists and one of Sweden's most warmly regarded independent festivals.
The three winners represent the full breadth of what Canadian independent music sounds like right now.
1st Place Winners: Fresh Breath - Rock Pop Band Singer/Songwriter Duo – Cottam, Ontario
“We are absolutely thrilled to be the first-place winners of North2North. To be able to bring our band with us to perform at Lilla By Festivalen is a dream come true! We are so grateful for this opportunity, and we can’t wait to share our music & motto of: ‘Peace, Love & Fresh Breath’ with everyone there.”
2nd Place Winner and Breakthrough Artist 2026: Irish Millie – Fiddle Singer/Songwriter Peterborough, Ontario
“I’m so honoured to represent Canada in Sweden. The music I play has roots in Europe, so there’s something really special about carrying it back across the ocean after all this time. It’s travelled so far to become part of who we are in Canada, evolving into something that feels like home, and it’s helped shape who I am as a musician. I’m excited to share it with new ears and new friends.”